World Mental Health Day falls on Oct. 10 and Nunavummiut have a new resource at their disposal.
The Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit (IIKELC), AKA Embrace Life Council, has released an app designed to be a culturally relevant, inclusive and an accessible digital tool for supporting mental health and well-being.
The Isumajunnattiarniq app comes from the Inuktitut word for mindfulness. It is available for free on both the Apple iOS system and Google Play Store. It is a resource for users of all ages in managing stress and trauma-related symptoms.
By SA国际影视传媒渞ecognizing the ongoing challenges faced by remote communities in accessing physical and mental healthcare services, the app offers a modern, Nunavut-specific solution that combines traditional wisdom with innovative digital technology," stated Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit executive director Cecile Guerin. "By integrating traditional cultural elements with modern wellness practices, it offers a unique and valuable resource that empowers users to engage in mindfulness, connect with their heritage, and foster resilience in their everyday lives."
What differentiates Isumajunnattiarniq is its deep roots in NunavutSA国际影视传媒檚 cultural heritage. Its key features SA国际影视传媒 cultural relevance and connection, a holistic wellness approach, being multi-lingual and inclusive, offline accessibility, community-driven development and its focus on addressing the healthcare gaps SA国际影视传媒 are distinctive to Nunavut, intended to foster a strong sense of cultural resilience and connection to the land, language, and community.
The app was developed in partnership with Ampere Canada, formerly Pinnguaq.
SA国际影视传媒淲eSA国际影视传媒檙e really proud of this app for a few reasons," said Kent Driscoll, Ampere Canada's director of communication, advocacy and partnership, who explained what went into making Isumajunnattiarniq. "First off, it was a product of our co-design process. When we make anything, our approach is to listen more than we talk, and really find out what the client needs. This app was a product of that collaboration with Embrace Life.
"Our Inuktitut interpreter, Meeka Aqqiaruq, was a huge help there, and she worked with Embrace Life to make the app appropriate for them. The other part is that the app is a great example of our Ampere life cycle. We are always looking for opportunities for our staff to learn and grow. In this case our Talia Metuq worked closely with Embrace Life on the artwork and the app. Talia learned some new skills and helped us learn what Embrace Life needed from the app. It is a great example of how we work with partners."